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Shabbat Shalom from New Jersey!

In this week’s Torah portion, Matot-Masei (Numbers 30:2 – 36:13), the Israelites waged war against the Midianites and the boundaries of Israel are given. Midian was plotting the destruction of the Israelites, and the Israelites took action to defend their people and what was right. Later on, after the boundaries of Israel are set, cities of refuge are specified for those who committed wrongs in society.

During our second week of Urban Mitzvah Corps, we have witnessed injustices such as hunger, neglect, and economic disparity, and we chose to fight to mitigate these issues. We prepared fresh meals and served them to those who are hungry at Elijah’s Promise, providing not just food but dignity. We spent quality time visiting the eldest of our community at Regency Heritage Nursing Center, providing the residents with conversation and company. We brought fun to the children of New Brunswick as junior counselors at Play SAFE, who without this free summer program would have nowhere else to go during the summer months. This Shabbat, we will rest and pray for the strength to continue fighting for justice during the remaining weeks at Urban Mitzvah Corps and beyond.